Omission

To the editor:

While the May 5th article by Catherine Schmitt regarding Sears Island includes some accurate information, it omits any reflection by those who have been sitting at the table for so long. Our charge has been to construct a conservation easement that complies with the Sears Island Planning Initiative's Consensus Agreement. After almost 40 years of controversy over this superb and unique island, our plan finally creates and codifies a permanent conservation easement on 600 acres, including an impressive four miles of coastline, myriad acres of wetland habitat and public access to certain areas. We are enthusiastic about the opportunity to provide such a large piece of the island that will be used for conservation, education and recreation. Neither side, transportation nor conservation interests, has been asked to endorse any effort on the other side. There is no current site specific port development plan in hand. We believe that the Town of Searsport and the citizens of Maine will benefit greatly from the opportunity to visit and learn about our greater environment while respecting the unique habitats that exist on the island. Given our charge, we fervently believe that environmental and conservation interests are well served by our efforts.

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Becky Bartovics

President, Penobscot Bay Alliance
North Haven